52 circuit to set sail in Australia

Eight TP52 owners and their crew are readying for the Victorian launch of Australia’s inaugural class series, the TP52 Southern Cross Cup, which will start on Port Phillip this coming Friday.

The exciting concept has been years in the making and now, thanks to the support of the host yacht club and event sponsors, the opening event will bring the 52-foot flat out racing platforms to the Bayside area for the first time, and showcase the class’ professionalism and marketability.

Event supporters working with key members of the Australian TP52 class have taken the concept of a bunch of keen Aussie owners wanting to race their oversized dinghies to a public event that is generating international interest.

In keeping with the active lifestyle element of sailing, Brighton Jeep is testing the waters by sponsoring the opening regatta of the three-part series.

“The Australian TP52 Southern Cross Cup is a perfect fit for Brighton Jeep, a major partner of the event,” said David Piva, Dealer Principal. “Brighton Jeep is proud to support the Bayside area of Melbourne in hosting the Southern Cross Cup in the local community.

“The Jeep Brand, like yachting, represents a rugged yet sophisticated lifestyle entrenched in the competitive sporting spirit. On behalf of Brighton Jeep; all the best to the teams for this weekend – Don’t Hold Back!”

Coopers 62 Pilsner is supplying product to the event and supporting happy hour each afternoon when all the teams, sponsors and guests will enjoy a post-race Coopers 62 beer on the balcony at the host venue, Sandringham Yacht Club (SYC) at Sandringham, on Port Phillip.

SYC was chosen as the venue for the opening round of the series due to its second-to-none clubhouse facilities and marina infrastructure, plus spectators have the ability to watch these speed machines going head-to-head from the convenience of the yacht club deck.

SYC Vice Commodore Kate Mitchell said, “Sandringham Yacht Club members are thrilled the series is being held at our club. These powerful boats and the calibre of the crews are going to make for the most exciting class racing imaginable.

“The downwind starts in particular will make a great spectacle close inshore for all to enjoy”, added Mitchell.

Regatta event manager, New Tack, is based locally. The marine management services company is also responsible for coordinating many aspects of Geelong’s annual Festival of Sails which brings close to 3,000 sailors and up to 100,000 visitors to Geelong’s waterfront over the Australia Day long weekend.

Racing is due to commence daily at midday from Friday 8th to Sunday February 10th off SYC with eight TP52s, including a Hong Kong entrant, lining up for the eight-race series.

The public is invited to watch the action and meet the owners and crew, some of them well-known Olympic, America’s Cup and round-the-world sailors.